Seed Savers Exchange is a non-profit organization that saves and shares the heirloom seeds or our garden heritage, forming a living legacy that can be passed down through generations. When people grow and save seeds, they join an ancient tradition as stewards, nurturing our diverse, fragile, genetic and cultural heritage.

Seed Savers Exchange was founded in 1975 by Diane Ott Whealy and Kent Whealy, to honor this tradition. Their collection started when Diane’s terminally-ill grandfather gave them the seeds of two garden plants, Grandpa Ott's Morning Glory and German Pink Tomato, that his parents brought from Bavaria when they immigrated to St. Lucas, Iowa in the 1870s.

More than 23 acres of certified organic gardens are on public display at Heritage Farm in Decorah, Iowa. Each Summer 10% of each crop is planted on a 10-year rotation to renew the seed collection. Few gardeners will ever see such stunning genetic diversity.

Visitors are welcome at Heritage Farm from April through December. Open Weekdays 9 to 5 and Weekends 10 to 5.

A donation of $1.00 per visitor is suggested. Guided tours and bus tours are available for a charge of $3.00 per person, and can be arranged by calling Diane at 563-382-5990.

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